No, this isn’t a post about The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences but rather one closer to home. A few months ago, while paying my real estate taxes on the City of Worcester’s website, I noticed a story about the Mayor’s Civics Academy. Since it encouraged Worcester residents to learn more, I clicked on the link and discovered this five-week program designed to teach how a city, in this case Worcester, operates. Although there was no guarantee of acceptance into this program when I expressed my interest, I was pleased to learn a few weeks later that I had been accepted. 

Over the five weeks, the department heads of every division introduced us in an unbiased manner to what their departments did, how they did it, and how they were funded. Throughout the course, I learned firsthand how a city the size of Worcester can and does operate. Suffice it to say, I was greatly impressed with each presenter as they walked us through their department and what they contribute to the city.

I think I can speak for most people when I say that we often complain about issues like real estate taxes and similar matters. However, knowing where those dollars are going and how they are being spent does help when it comes time to write a check! While I certainly don’t agree with everything regarding how the city spends and prioritizes, on balance, I will say that this city is extremely well-run and has exceptionally competent and intelligent people in their respective positions. There is something positive to be said about being fiscally prudent.

In today’s age of constant issues surrounding governments of any size, more cities and towns should have programs like this to educate their residents on how the system works. The City of Worcester wanted attendees to understand how the city operated, so we would inform others and, perhaps, even engage in governance. Maybe I will seek to join a committee or two. Or perhaps I’ll run for… I’ll stop here so I don’t get ahead of myself! What I did receive on our last day was the attached certificate for our participation. My thanks again to all those who made this program possible and enjoyable.

Speaking of certificates, I’m pleased to report that In Mind We Trust, the sequel to Justice Is Mind, is an official selection of The Flight Deck Film Festival! Since I introduced In Mind We Trust into the festival market, the screenplay has achieved 5 wins, 3 finalist positions, and 5 official selections to date. Writing any screenplay is a challenge, but a sequel can be particularly difficult as you want to remain true to the original story while also needing to create a new one to engage an audience.

I’ll be in the audience next weekend at the world premiere of Stonegate. It’s hard to believe that almost a year has passed since I played Father Clayton in this psychological thriller. Having been fortunate to experience both sides of the camera, I always enjoy watching a new film come to life on the silver screen. I don’t think many truly understand the amount of time and effort required to create a motion picture. The dedication of over sixty people under the direction of Dan Groom will be showcased next Sunday!

Lights! Camera! Premiere!